Abstract

Objectives: Attendees will learn how platelet concentration in platelet-rich plasma, (PRP), affects clinical efficacy and how to improve PRP quality using simple visual cues and centrifuge adjustments. They will gain practical tips for enhancing PRP concentration and clinical results, with optional insights into when and how hematology analysis might be beneficial. Introduction: Although PRP is often praised as "liquid gold" for its regenerative benefits, research has shown that many PRP systems produce plasma with low platelet concentration, leading to suboptimal results. This presentation will uncover common shortcomings in PRP preparation and provide simple, practical strategies for increasing platelet concentration, using both visual cues and centrifuge techniques. While hematology analysis remains the gold standard for precise measurements, PRP quality can still be improved in most clinical settings, even without advanced equipment. Materials / method: Drawing from over 10 years of experience and direct testing of thousands of PRP samples, this session highlights practical methods to assess and improve PRP quality. Visual cues, such as plasma opacity, and the presence or absence of platelet pellets, were studied for insights into PRP platelet concentration. Optimal PRP preparation techniques were developed using incremental changes in centrifuge settings (time and force) for optimal concentration. Simple visual cues and processing techniques were developed and refined to improve the quality of PRP. Results: PRP systems vary widely in platelet concentration with a direct impact on clinical results. Although hematology analysis is the gold standard for testing and improving PRP concentration and quality, it is not available in many clinics. However there are still simple, practical techniques which can be used to elevate the quality of PRP, even without advanced testing equipment. These include visual inspection of PRP, simple centrifuge adjustments, and double-spin processing techniques. Each sample requires careful processing based on individual characteristics. Conclusion: The quality and concentration of many common PRP systems may be known and improved using simple, practical methods such as visual cues, centrifuge adjustments, and double-spin processing, even in the absence of advanced hematology analysis. By applying these methods, clinicians can understand and elevate the quality of their PRP preparation, leading to improved clinical outcomes for their patients.